EMT-B CLASS

The class text is Emergency Care 10th edition (ISBN-13: 9780131526570). You can purchase this on-line at Barnes and Noble.

Prerequisite: The Virginia Office of EMS requires that all individuals hold current certification in C.P.R. as a prerequisite for enrollment in the EMT-Basic (initial full certification courses). The current courses which are accepted by the Virginia Office of EMS to meet these standards can be found on this web site.

CARS also tecahes CPR classes on the 2nd Saturday of each month. Contact the CARS CPR instructor at cpr@rescue1.org to register. It's important that you have this done BEFORE the first class night. You MUST bring a copy of current CPR certification to the first class or you will be denied entry into the course. Check the course to be sure it is one of the classes listed above. We have had folks take CPR for adults only thinking it was all they needed and that isn't the case. ONLY THE ABOVE LISTED CLASSES COUNT!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the cost of the class?
There is no cost to the class other than a textbook. The class is provided free to those who may want to join CARS.

Is the text all I need?
As part of the class, you are required to ride-along on an ambulance for a 12-hour shift. To ride-along, you must adhere to our policy for riding along. This means you must have navy blue pants and a blue oxford-style shirt which can be easily obtained at Wal-Mart or the Salvation Army.

How long does the class last?
The class lasts for one semester.

Can I receive college credit for taking this EMT course?
Because of the many problems we have had in the past, we no longer offer college credit.

Is there a commitment to join CARS if I take this class?
We ask that only those interested in joining CARS take this class. The commitment is two years.

Why 2 years?
The two year committment is so the public gets back what is invested in you. Your training, uniforms, equipment and meals are all free. There is a release process you must go through as well as additional training. There is no such thing as joining and immediately becoming an released patient care provider.

I cannot commit to two years, can I still take the class?
No, two years is what we ask. This can easily be done by First through Third Year UVA students, Fourth Year students are encouraged to take the class elsewhere.

I'm a fourth year UVA student and may not stay in the area after I graduate. Can I still take the class?
No. The class is to entice people to join our organization and that requires a two-year commitment. If you are not sure if you can or are willing to join, you should try another class elsewhere.

Does that commitment begin when the course begins or when it ends?
When you successfully pass the class and join CARS. You cannot join unless you EMT-B certified or enrolled in on of our classes first.

I don't understand what you mean by release process, can you explain that term?
All new personnel must go through a lengthy procedure to become "released" and ride solo on ambulances. This procedure allows you to gain vaulable experience and knowledge of procedures and is required at every EMT (BLS & ALS) level. The length of time it takes depends on how hard you work at it.

What would it mean if I plan to go abroad for 6-8 weeks during this summer? Would 8-6 weeks be added onto my 2 years?
If you plan on leaving over the summer, you will not be allowed to join. Sorry, but we answer emergency calls 24/7 and if everyone left over summer break, there would be no one lesft to answer citizen's calls for help. Weigh your options and if you feel that you must leave over the summer, please do not waste our time and yours by joining.

Must I attend all classes?
Yes. The only excuse we accept is illness and even then only two classes are allowed to be missed. If you have a heavy workload this semester, we don't advise taking this class.

Is there a limit to the size of the class?
Yes. We can accept up to 25 students, but no more than that. The first 25 students who sign up and make the 2-year commitment are in. The minimum class size must be twelve or the class will not be taught.

I find that I cannot take this class right now, is it offered again?
CARS EMT classes are offered each semester. Just watch our web site (www.carsrescue.org) for class details.

I cannot commit to CARS. Are there other EMT classes offered in the area?
Yes. Piedmont Virginia Community College as well as Albemarle County Fire & Rescue teach EMT classes.

How do I register for this class?
All you must do is send an e-mail to John Burruss stating who you are and the reason for wanting to take the EMT class. If you just show up the first night without contacting us first you will probably be denied entry into the course.

I'm a First Year UVA student and don't have a car. How can I get a ride to class?
The local buses do not come by our building. The best way is to catch a ride with someone else in the class, which is usually not a problem (most EMT students are also UVA students)..

I have a class until 17:30 and may be late on some days, is this permitted?
No. Class starts at 18:00 (6 pm) and tardiness is not tolerated. Apply when you have the time to fully commit.

I have additional questions; Who can I contact for answers?
Most questions are easily answered on this web page. Show up the first night and we will answer any additional questions then.

I can't seem to find a CPR class, can I show up and start the class and find CPR later?
No. OEMS regulations require you to have valid CPR certification the FIRST night of class. If you cannot show proof of CPR, you will be asked to leave.